Transformative Learning

Our courses are aimed at activists and organizers working for social change, and thus we try to provide courses that are as affordable and accessible as possible.

We offer a model of learning which is not dry and academic but is based upon sharing our experience and using the 'social knowledge' that we all have. In this model of learning we can all become both co-learners and co-teachers.

This social (or 'experiential') knowledge is combined with various analytical tools and frameworks provided by group facilitators. This adds valuable 'analytical' content to our knowledge.

Finally, we test our knowledge and experience through action - practical involvement in the process of community and social change. People's community involvement becomes the raw material for their learning.

Our Courses

We currently offer the Paulo Freire Formation Programme as a comprehensive introduction to Freire's approach and its application through social analysis. You can also study aspects of the social economy and community organizing. All of these courses are delivered online, although the Paulo Freire Formation Programme also includes an option to attend a Summer School (the "Intercultural Formation Meeting") in Part II.

Alternatively, if you are interested in workshops (one to five days), either in-house or at Burnley, click here; or if you are interested in university courses offered by the University of Central Lancashire, click here.

Our principal programme. The Paulo Freire Formation Programme is an in-depth course in social analysis and popular education methods for full training in Freirean tools and approaches. This course is aimed at those who are committed to working for social change.

The 'social economy' refers to the sector of the economy which is neither state nor privately owned, including co-operatives, social enterprises and nonprofit organizations. We also use the term 'solidarity economy', which goes much further. It implies economic activity for social justice, and is often seen as providing an alternative to capitalism.

Courses in Community Leadership are currently available at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). New programmes in Community Leadership and Community Organizing will be introduced by the Freire Institute later this year.

If you would like to discuss whether any of these courses would be suitable for you, please contact us.